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Sample Proclamation

As our [City/State] continues to make strides in reducing the
crime rate, we must remember that there are still far too many victims
of crime. Those who have suffered a violation of their person, property,
or trust deserve to be treated with dignity and respect by our criminal
and juvenile justice systems and by society at-large.

We recognize that our response to crime victims plays an important role in their efforts to rebuild their
lives following the offense. Let all of us  policy makers, those in the criminal justice system,
counselors, clergy members, and members of the general public  do what we can to Bring Honor
to Victims, responding to crime victims compassionately and respectfully.

While our [City/State] has adopted laws to protect the rights of victims of crime and provide them
certain essential services, all of us must do what we can to adhere not only to the letter of victims' rights
laws but the spirit of those laws as well. Let us acknowledge that, just as government must be open to
its citizens, our system of justice must be open to victims of crime. In the year 2002 and beyond, let us
Bring Honor to Victims and create a world where respect and dignity will be basic rights for
everyone victimized by crime, and where those responsible for implementing the rights of victims are
accountable for their actions.

Through public and private efforts, our community has already taken important steps to ensure that our
treatment of victims helps them to begin the healing. Let us gratefully acknowledge all those who work,
often as volunteers, on behalf of crime victims. Let us recognize those many law enforcement officers,
prosecutors, victim service providers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, counselors,
physicians, health care professionals, and the many others whose dedication and service to crime
victims helps to lessen trauma and assists in personal recoveries. Let us in particular express our
appreciation for those victims and survivors of crime who have turned personal tragedy into a
motivating force not only to improve the rights and treatment of other victims of crime but, also, to build
a better, more just community.

I hereby proclaim the week of April 2127, 2002, Crime
Victims' Rights Week, and urge the citizens of this
[City/State] to use the week to reaffirm our commitment to
see that crime victims receive our respect, understanding, and help
this week and throughout the year.